Hurricane Helene’s flooding was especially destructive many major highways and secondary roadways throughout Eastern Tennessee. One year later, officials from the Tennessee Department of Transportation are still working diligently to repair a few of those major thoroughfares. For those herculean efforts and their dedication and perseverance, Bristol Motor Speedway is recognizing the Tennessee Department of Transportation as the BMS Neighborhood Hero from Knoxville this weekend.
Officials from TDOT were formally recognized during pre-race ceremonies for the Bass Pro Shops Night Race, a Round of 16 Playoff race in the NASCAR Cup Series, tonight.
On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene altered the landscape of East Tennessee for a generation. Violent floodwaters washed away lives, livelihoods, homes and crops, and destroyed vital roads and bridges needed for recovery efforts. More than 900 employees from the Tennessee Department of Transportation responded – they saved people from rising floodwaters; aided in search, rescue, and recovery efforts; and worked countless hours rebuilding roads and bridges to reconnect East Tennessee. Thanks to the tireless efforts of TDOT employees from across Tennessee, all but two routes affected by Hurricane Helene are now open.
Many members of TDOT will be the special guests of Bristol Motor Speedway enjoying the race tonight.
Accepting the Neighborhood Hero honor on behalf of TDOT are District Manager Michael Dick and District Construction Team Lead Camren Yarberry.
“We can’t thank the Tennessee Department of Transportation enough for all that they do,” said Jerry Caldwell, president and general manager of Bristol Motor Speedway. “Their efforts to rebuild following Hurricane Helene are monumental. But what they do to keep our roadways clear and safe on a daily basis is often overlooked and we are so grateful for their services and proud to shine a bright light on what they do by honoring them as a BMS Neighborhood Hero at tonight’s Bass Pro Shops Night Race.
Since October 17, 2024, TDOT has removed more than 720,000 cubic yards of debris from East Tennessee roadways. That’s enough to line all 500 laps of the Bass Pro Shops Night Race in 1.5 cubic yards of debris.
Established in 2018, the BMS Neighborhood Heroes program recognizes individuals, groups, and organizations who have gone above and beyond in their service, actions and performances to better their communities. Past honorees have included first responders, military personnel, educators, athletes, healthcare workers and other community leaders who have made a lasting impact on the state of Tennessee and the expanded region around Bristol Motor Speedway.
